Gateron Aliaz vs. HMX EVA

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options emerge: the Gateron Aliaz and the HMX EVA. The Aliaz, a tactile switch, excels in quiet environments, making it an ideal choice for office settings. With its medium-heavy weight, the Aliaz provides substantial feedback for each keystroke, catering to users who appreciate a pronounced typing experience while keeping noise to a minimum. In contrast, the HMX EVA, a linear switch, offers a smooth typing feel inspired by the vibrant colors of Evangelion Unit-01, appealing to those who favor a continuous motion without tactile bumps. While the Aliaz's muted profile is perfect for focused workspaces, the EVA's resonant sound signature enhances the enjoyment of typing for gamers and enthusiasts alike. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Aliaz Tactile

HMX EVA Linear

$8.00

$5.50 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Aliaz switches feature polycarbonate housings for both the top and bottom components, which results in a distinct sound profile characterized by sharpness and clarity. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, enhances the resonant qualities of the sound produced when the switch is engaged and released. This creates a higher-pitched and crisper auditory experience, making these switches an excellent choice for users who prefer a more vibrant typing feedback. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine brilliantly through the switch, adding to its aesthetic appeal, particularly for gamers and aesthetic enthusiasts who desire an engaging light display.

In contrast, the HMX EVA switches are encased in nylon for both the top and bottom housings, delivering a markedly different auditory experience. Nylon is known for its softness relative to polycarbonate, which leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This material absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory feedback when typing. The EVA’s nylon construction tends to provide a more muted sound, which can be more appealing to users who prioritize a quieter typing experience or those who work in noise-sensitive environments. The aesthetic appearance of nylon, while not as clear as polycarbonate, still holds merit, but it may not have the same visual impact when paired with RGB lighting.

When comparing the two, it's clear that the differences in material significantly shape the resulting sound profiles and user experiences one can expect with the Gateron Aliaz and HMX EVA switches. The Aliaz's crisp sound is a result of its polycarbonate construction, enhancing the clarity and resonance, while the EVA’s nylon design contributes to a fuller, more enveloping auditory experience. However, if these switches were to share the same housing material, you would expect to achieve similar results in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback. Overall, the choice between these switches ultimately hinges on individual preferences for sound clarity versus fullness, along with considerations for aesthetic needs when it comes to lighting.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch to the HMX EVA linear switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Aliaz features a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience favored by users who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the HMX EVA is significantly lighter, with an actuation force of just 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for those who type extensively or engage in long gaming sessions, as the lower weight reduces finger fatigue. Ultimately, while the Aliaz delivers a firmer touch favored by certain users, the EVA offers a more comfortable, lighter option for extended use, catering to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX EVA linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Aliaz features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the EVA has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Aliaz provides a deeper key press, which may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feel when typing. On the other hand, the EVA’s shorter travel distance might be advantageous for gamers or individuals seeking quicker response times, as it enables faster actuation. Consequently, those who prefer a more robust typing experience would likely gravitate towards the Aliaz, whereas those who favor speed and a more subtle feedback might opt for the EVA.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Aliaz switches are specifically designed to offer a muted auditory experience, making them ideal for quiet environments like offices. Their sound profile is characterized by a softer and more discreet noise level, effectively minimizing the typical clack associated with mechanical keyboards. In contrast, the HMX EVA linear switch has a resonant sound signature that may be more prominent, although the specific detail regarding its sound characteristics is not provided. Thus, one can expect the Aliaz to perform well in noise-sensitive areas, whereas the EVA may offer a more expressive auditory quality.

When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Aliaz stands out with its silky and polished tactile sensation. This combination ensures that each keystroke offers an exceptionally smooth and refined experience, minimizing resistance during key presses and enhancing comfort over extended typing sessions. The EVA, on the other hand, does not have specific descriptions available for its feel, but as a linear switch, it is generally expected to provide a smooth typing experience as well. However, without additional information, we cannot draw direct comparisons regarding the tactile sensation of the EVA.

In summary, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch provides a quiet, tactile experience with a muted sound profile and a silky, polished feel, making it well-suited for environments where noise control is necessary. The HMX EVA linear switch, while reminiscent of the iconic Evangelion design, offers a resonant sound and a smooth typing feel, though details about its specific tactility remain unknown. Ultimately, those accustomed to a more subdued typing experience will find solace in the Aliaz, while enthusiasts of a more resonant, linear switch may gravitate towards the EVA.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the HMX EVA linear switch will largely depend on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you often find yourself in a quiet office or shared space, the Aliaz switches come highly recommended for their muted sound profile and tactile feedback. With their heavier actuation force of 75 grams, they provide a substantial and satisfying feel for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience without the disruption of loud clicks. On the other hand, if you favor a smoother, lighter touch and vibrant aesthetics, the HMX EVA, with its light actuation force of 48 grams, allows for rapid keystrokes and an effortlessly smooth typing experience. These switches have been designed to mimic the iconic colors and features associated with Evangelion, making them not only functional but visually appealing as well. Ultimately, the decision hinges on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and noise reduction or a silky, fast typing experience with a lively design.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Aliaz Tactile

$8.00

$5.50 per 10

Learn more

HMX EVA Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more